The chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. Felix Akposi KSJI, marked the 2024 World AIDS Day with a deeply spiritual and poignant address, reaffirming his dedication to the well-being of his constituents. Speaking at the event, which fell on a Sunday, Hon. Akposi described himself as a servant-leader committed to being present and attentive to the yearnings of the people. He underscored the significance of the day’s message, describing it as a gospel of hope and transformation.
“I have listened intently to the presentations by all stakeholders on the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS and the pathways to overcoming them. Your passion in advocacy is inspiring, and it serves as a beacon of hope for many. Let us channel this zeal towards building a better Akamkpa where life becomes more meaningful for our people,” Hon. Akposi stated.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders, featured insightful contributions from Eld. Oku Felix Abang, Director of Health; Mrs. Egeh Ebe Ukara, Coordinator of the Local Action Committee on AIDS (LACA); and Dr. Egeh Nicholas Ukara, Executive Director of LIAN-Initiative. They collectively demystified HIV/AIDS, emphasising that contracting the virus is not a death sentence. They urged participants to embrace routine testing and those who have contracted the virus to adhere to antiretroviral treatments, highlighting the efficacy of modern medicine in enabling healthy lives despite a positive diagnosis.
The trio also delved into other transmission modes and prevention strategies, stressing the importance of awareness, responsible lifestyle choices, and community solidarity in the fight against the virus. “Knowledge is key to prevention, and understanding is vital to acceptance,” Dr. Ukara remarked.
In her goodwill message, the Vice Chairman of Council, Hon. Emilia Katame, echoed the need for collective action and called for intensified efforts to eradicate stigma. Her sentiments were reinforced by Mrs. Veronica Essien, Head of Local Government Administration, who emphasised the need for robust health policies. Other contributors, including the Council Secretary, Mr. Christian Lawrence Attah, and Hon. Angelina Itambom, representing the Leader of Council, applauded the proactive stance of the local government in health advocacy.
The event also doubled as the observance of World Nutrition Week, where the Local Government Nutrition Head, Mrs. Patricia Akposi, presented compelling insights into the intersection of nutrition and health. Her presentation drew attention to how balanced diets can bolster immunity and improve the quality of life for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Adding a youthful perspective, girls from various secondary schools participated in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, presenting stirring performances that highlighted the need to address sexual and reproductive health issues. Their contributions enriched the event, bringing to the fore the critical link between education, empowerment, and health.
The programme featured a symbolic World AIDS Day walk through Akamkpa town, distributing condoms and engaging in advocacy to sensitise the populace about HIV prevention and care. The sight of participants marching with determination exemplified the unity of purpose among stakeholders and residents.
Director of Health, Eld. Oku Felix Abang, and LACA Coordinator, Mrs. Ukara, assured attendees of their unwavering commitment to step-down training sessions across the Primary Health Centres in the local government area. This initiative aims to decentralise knowledge and equip grassroots health workers with the skills needed to sustain the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Hon. Akposi, in his concluding remarks, called for the institutionalisation of such collaborative efforts, stating, “Let us allow this passion to ignite a transformative process that makes Akamkpa a beacon of hope and progress. Together, we can make life better for our people in every way possible.”
The event was a profound demonstration of unity, purpose, and resilience, leaving attendees inspired to champion health, nutrition, and gender advocacy within their communities. The chairman’s emphasis on servant leadership set a hopeful tone for the future of Akamkpa, fostering a renewed commitment to the collective welfare of its people.
